Polokwane florist’s thorny truth beyond the bouquet
Despite the beauty of her craft, Nthabiseng Mamabolo's job as a florist comes with the hidden cost of cuts, pricks, and thorns as a constant companion.
POLOKWANE – Nthabiseng Mamabolo, a 34-year-old local florist, says customers often underestimate the physical demands and dedication required to run a successful flower shop.
Despite the toll that handling flowers takes on her hands, Mamabolo’s passion for her craft drives her to put her customers first.
Speaking to Polokwane Observer, Mamabolo shared some of the challenges she faces daily in her shop.
“Whether it’s the thorns on the roses that need to be removed by hand or the super sharp florist knives, I’m constantly dealing with cuts and pricks from the wire used in arrangements, corsages, and boutonnieres,” she explained. To stay safe, she always keeps a good supply of band-aids on hand.
Mamabolo’s love for floristry started at a young age. She began learning how to arrange flowers at the age of nine in 1999, under the guidance of her mother, Dineo, who owned a décor and catering company. This early exposure laid the foundation for her eventual career.
“I want people, especially aspiring florists, to understand that working as a florist isn’t all fun and games. It takes dedication, hard work, and sometimes cuts and wounds to create that beautiful bouquet. If you don’t put passion into the bouquet, it will show instantly. Your flowers need to look representable, as they reflect your company’s reputation.”
Mamabolo also shared some practical tips for those interested in pursuing floristry.
“You need to know how to work with flowers, especially since they’re often shipped dry in boxes. To keep them fresh, you should recut their stems every time their water is changed. And remember, we never cut flowers with scissors because they crush the stems, preventing the flower from drinking efficiently and shortening its life.”
Another important piece of advice Mamabolo offered is about storage.
“Flowers should never be kept in the same refrigerator or cooler as fruit, as fruit emits ethylene gas that causes fresh flowers to wilt and die. And here’s a tip: putting a copper penny in the water with tulips or daffodils can help them last longer.”
